Overview

The Kuari Pass Trek is a celebrated winter trekking experience in Uttarakhand, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. Also known as the Lord Curzon Trail, this trek offers a beautiful mix of heritage, panoramic Himalayan views, alpine meadows, and oak forests. Situated at an altitude of 12,717 ft, Kuari Pass opens a gateway to some of the most majestic Himalayan peaks.
This trek takes you through charming villages, deep woods, and vast grasslands like Gorson Bugyal, while offering spectacular views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Hathi Ghoda, and Neelkanth peaks. It’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers looking to explore nature's grandeur in peaceful solitude.
Despite being a high-altitude trek, Kuari Pass is considered relatively easy to moderate in difficulty. The route is scenic and rich with culture and biodiversity, offering everything from pine forests to the chance to spot wildlife. Whether you’re walking under snow-laden trees or camping under a starlit sky, this trek promises an experience of serenity and adventure.

Itinerary

Well-paced itinerary with forest routes, ridge walks, and an iconic viewpoint that showcases majestic Himalayan ranges.

Why Should You Do the Kuari Pass Trek?

• Breathtaking Mountain Views: The Kuari Pass Trek is renowned for its wide-ranging views of Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Hathi Ghoda Parbat, making it a visual feast throughout the journey.
• Rich Cultural Experience:Trek through remote villages like Tugasi, Guling, and Khullara, experiencing traditional Uttarakhandi architecture and the warm hospitality of locals.
• Forests & Meadows : Hike through stunning oak, walnut, and rhododendron forests, opening into vast alpine meadows like Gorson Bugyal, which remain snow-covered in winter.
• Perfect for Stargazing:Clear winter skies make this trek a dream for stargazers. On cloudless nights, you might even spot the Milky Way from your campsite.
• Ideal for Beginners: With a well-paced itinerary and relatively easy terrain, the Kuari Pass Trek is suitable for first-time trekkers with a decent level of fitness.

Best Time to Do Kuari Pass Trek

The winter months from November to March are considered the best time to do the Kuari Pass Trek. During this period, the trail is covered with snow, and skies remain clear, offering unmatched views and a true Himalayan winter trekking experience.

How Difficult is Kuari Pass Trek?

Kuari Pass Trek falls under the easy to moderate difficulty level. It involves a mix of gradual ascents and descents, with the summit day being slightly more demanding. Basic fitness and acclimatization are sufficient to complete the trek safely and enjoyably.

How to Reach Kuari Pass Trek?

Joshimath is the base camp for the Kuari Pass Trek. Here's how you can reach it:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), around 270 km from Joshimath. From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Joshimath.
• Rich Cultural Experience:Trek through remote villages like Tugasi, Guling, and Khullara, experiencing traditional Uttarakhandi architecture and the warm hospitality of locals.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station. From Rishikesh, you can take a shared cab or private transport to Joshimath, which is around a 9–10-hour drive.
• By Road: Regular buses are available from Rishikesh or Haridwar to Joshimath. It's recommended to start early in the morning to reach before nightfall.

Inclusion

• Accommodation: All essential camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and mats will be provided. Tents are typically shared among 3–4 trekkers.
• Meals:All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening tea) are included. Food is simple, nourishing, and usually a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
• Trekking Team: The package includes skilled trek leaders, experienced guides, and a support crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience..
• Transport:Transportation from the starting point of the trek to the endpoint is covered in the package..
• First Aid: A basic medical kit will be carried along for emergencies.

Exclusion

• Purchases: Items like bottled water, energy drinks, snacks, and alcohol are not covered.
• Travel Insurance: You are required to arrange your own travel insurance; it is not included.
• Medical Evacuation: In case of emergencies requiring evacuation (like helicopter rescue), the cost must be borne by the trekker.
• Gratuities:Tipping the trekking staff is optional and not part of the package.
• Other Expenses: Any services not listed in the inclusions section are not part of the package.

Things To Carry

• Backpack: A durable, comfortable backpack for carrying all essentials.
• Clothing: Include warm layers and waterproof gear like thermals, fleece, jackets, gloves, and a woolen cap.
• Footwear:Quality trekking shoes with grip, along with extra pairs of socks.
• Hydration:Carry water bottles or a hydration bladder to stay well-hydrated throughout the trek.
• Snacks:Bring dry snacks like energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for extra energy.
• Medical Kit: A personal first-aid kit with painkillers, bandages, and antiseptics.
• Lighting:A headlamp or flashlight for visibility during evenings or in low light.
• ID Proof:A valid government-issued ID (like Aadhar or Driver’s License) for identity verification.

CONFIRMATION POLICY

• A booking confirmation voucher will be emailed within 24 hours of successful booking.
• If your chosen date is unavailable, a new date as per your preference will be offered, and a revised confirmation will be sent.
• You may cancel the booking before confirmation if rescheduling isn’t acceptable, and a full refund will be processed.

CANCELLATION POLICY

• 45+ days before start: 25% of trek cost will be charged.
• 15–30 days before start: 50% of trek cost will be charged.
• 0–15 days before start: No refund; 100% cancellation charges apply.
• Weather/Government restrictions: In case of cancellations due to weather or administrative orders, alternatives will be offered, but no cash refunds are possible.

REFUND POLICY:

• If you opt for a refund after cancellation, the amount will be credited back to the original payment method within 10–12 working days.